Final answer:
Odor representation in the brain is achieved through configural processing, with repeated neural activations enabling the identification of chemicals linked to specific scents.
Step-by-step explanation:
Representation of odors in the brain is likely due to configural processing of scents under specific neuronal conditions. This way, repeated neural activations will allow the brain to identify which chemicals are linked to a particular scent. Odorant molecules, which are volatile chemicals, bind to receptor proteins in olfactory neurons. These neurons then send action potentials through their axons to the brain, where the olfactory bulb's glomeruli receive and process these signals. Each glomerulus is specific to one type of odorant, and from there, the signals travel directly to various brain regions such as the olfactory cortex, frontal cortex, and the temporal lobe. This configural processing allows for the discrimination of complex odor mixtures and the association of these odors with memories and emotions.